Affordable Diffusion Microchamber Array Designs for Isolating Microbes in Classrooms and Laboratories.

Area of Science:

• Microbiology
• Environmental Science
• Educational Technology

Background:

• Traditional petri dish plating for bacterial isolation is a century-old method.
• Diffusion microchamber array (DMA) devices, like the 'ichip', offer advanced culturing of environmental bacteria.
• Current DMA devices present challenges for integration into university microbiology curricula due to size and complexity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce a novel suite of DMA devices, termed 'iplates', designed for microbiology education.
• To provide guidance on the creation and application of 'iplates' as a customizable, affordable tool for bacterial isolation and cultivation.
• To enhance the accessibility and effectiveness of DMA technology in academic settings.

Main Methods:

• Development of 'iplates', DMA devices mimicking the 96-well plate format.
• Utilizing membranes for culturing microorganisms with environmental media.
• Providing instructional guidance for device creation and use.

Main Results:

• The 'iplate' design offers a simpler, more affordable, and customizable alternative to existing DMA devices.
• The 96-well plate format facilitates easier handling and integration into student laboratory settings.
• The iplates enable the isolation and incubation of diverse microorganisms, complementing traditional methods.

Conclusions:

• Iplates represent a significant advancement for microbiology education, making advanced culturing techniques more accessible.
• These devices empower educators and students to explore a wider range of microbial diversity.
• The customizable nature of iplates supports diverse research interests and pedagogical goals in microbiology.